Mary Jane L Esser
June 19, 1927 - November 12, 2020
Obituary
CROSS PLAINS - Mary Jane (Maerz) Esser, age 93, of Middleton, passed away on Thursday, Nov. 12, 2020. She was born in Castle Rock, Wis. on June 19, 1927, the daughter of Peter and Christina (Hying) Maerz. Mary Jane was united in marriage to Lawrence Esser on June 19, 1946, in Dane, Wis. Together Lawrence and Mary Jane bought the Esser family farm where they farmed and raised five children. Her husband, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren were first priority in her life. Mary Jane loved flowers, and she planted and maintained several flower gardens on the farm. She also loved music. She played guitar, accordion and piano. She was a member of a small band and played at many establishments in western rural Wisconsin and local establishments. She entertained residents of the Black Earth and Lodi nursing homes as well.
Mary Jane is survived by four children, Ray (Mary) Esser of Verona, Diane (Butch) Transue of Stoughton, Ron Esser (Pam Hardy) of Waunakee and Richard Esser of Middleton; eight grandchildren, Tammie (Andy) Arbuckle of Belleville, Jamie Esser of Cross Plains, Brian (Melissa) Esser of Belleville, Nathan (Tanya) Esser of New Berlin, Benjamin Esser of Waunakee, and Zachary, Jenna and Jayden Esser of Waunakee; eight great-grandchildren, Hunter Haavind, Ryan and Aaron Arbuckle, and Kyle, Kaylie, Kennedi, Thea and Layla Esser; sister and brother-in-law, Virginia (Edmund) Karls; and sister-in-law, Ruth Maerz. She is further survived by several nieces and nephews. Mary Jane was preceded in death by her husband, Lawrence; daughter, Marlene; her parents; brother, Ray Maerz; sisters, Cecelia and Dolores; grandson, Chad Esser; and several in-laws.
A private Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church. The family wishes to extend a very special thank you to Agrace HospiceCare for their compassionate support, enabling Mary Jane's wishes to spend her final moments at home surrounded by her family. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.
"God could not be everywhere so he created Mothers."
Gunderson Cross Plains
Funeral & Cremation Care
2421 Church St.
(608) 798-3141
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Memories
KY
Katie Yaskal
Other •
Ray, Mary, Tammie, Andy, Brian & Melissa- We are so sorry to hear of Grandma Esser's passing. She was such a sweet lady and always made me laugh! We hope you find comfort and peace in the memories you all share. Hugs to all of you! Jon & Katie Yaskal (William too!)
DS
Donna Schoepp
Other •
Mary Esser was a king hearted person who was always ready to help someone in need. She sang and played instruments at many functions and nursing homes when asked and always brought along baked goods of some kind. May she rest in Peace Our thoughts and prayers are for the family during this difficult time of saying good bye . Donna & Linus Schoepp
MH
Mary Helleckson
Other •
Mary was a wonderful lady. I remember the Saturday’s when I would fix her hair. We would hash over all the stuff that went on in Cross Plains. Mary will be missed. 😢
RZ
rosemary zimmerman
Other •
My sympathy to her family. Mary was a special lady. She used her talents well and it was a joy to visit with her. Lots if happy memories.
SP
steve and carol paar
Other •
sorry to hear of you're mom's passing, steve and carol paar
DP
Dori Paar
Other •
I’m remembering the good times Harold and I had going to the Esser farm with our family and enjoying a game of cards and having lunch. Our family will always have so many great memories and Mary Jane will be missed. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. Love, Dori Paar, Steve and Carol, Sue, Sandy and Chris